Monday News Brief

Chamber Launches “31 Days of Shopping Local” Today in Genesee County

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce is launching its “31 Days of Shopping Local” campaign today, running from November 24th through December 24th. The month-long initiative is designed to spotlight small businesses throughout the county, aligning with the spirit of Small Business Saturday and extending it across the entire holiday season.
Each day, the Chamber will feature local shops and services across its social media platforms, including LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. Some posts will highlight holiday deals and unique gift ideas, while others will focus on services, experiences, and even mental-health tips to help residents manage the busy season.
Marketing & Event Coordinator Tory Thompson says the message is simple: supporting local businesses strengthens the community. Thompson hopes residents will make an effort not only during the holidays, but all year long, to shop, dine, and engage locally.
The Chamber encourages everyone to like, share, and interact with the daily posts, noting that even small actions can make a meaningful difference for local business owners.

Stuff the Cruiser Drive Brings in Huge Toy Haul at Batavia Towne Center

Hundreds of local kids will have a brighter Christmas thanks to the turnout at Saturday’s Stuff the Cruiser toy drive at Batavia Towne Center. The annual event, run by the Sheriff’s Office, Batavia Police, and the Probation Department, brought in what officers believe is one of the biggest collections yet.
Some donors returned to stores to buy even more toys, while others arrived with vehicles already packed with gifts. All donations will be distributed through the Department of Social Services to families in need this holiday season.

Alexander-Pembroke’s Historic Season Ends in 11–8 Heartbreaker

Alexander-Pembroke’s first year as a merged football program ended in tough fashion Friday night, falling 11–8 to Chautauqua Lake on a late 32-yard field goal. The Defenders outgained the Eagles 246 to 173, but penalties and field position proved costly.
Madden Perry opened the scoring with a safety, and Ryder Reichert pushed the lead to 8–0 with a third-quarter touchdown. But Chautauqua Lake answered with a quick TD and two-point conversion before hitting the game-winning kick.
Duke Snyder led the Defenders with 89 receiving yards, while Perry collected two sacks. Despite the loss, the team closes its inaugural season as Section V Class C champions with a 10–1 record.

Batavia Council to Vote on Energy Choice Act, Swear In New Police Leaders

Batavia City Council meets today at 7 p.m., and members will vote on whether to support the federal Energy Choice Act, introduced by Congressman Nick Langworthy. The resolution argues the bill would help keep energy costs affordable and protect access to natural gas as New York prepares to ban new fossil-fuel hookups in upcoming years.
Council’s resolution says Albany’s mandates could hurt affordability, threaten reliability during peak demand, and limit consumer choice.
The meeting will also feature the swearing-in of the city’s new police leadership. Christopher Camp will become Police Chief, Matthew Lutey Assistant Chief, and Matthew Wojtaszczyk Detective Sergeant. The changes follow Chief Shawn Heubusch’s move to Assistant City Manager, where he’ll oversee administrative departments and assist with budgeting and union negotiations.
City Manager Rachael Tabelski says the new $15 million police station on Bank Street and Alva Place should be fully operational by mid-December, with a community tour planned.
Work is also underway on the 2026 city budget, which is due to Council on January 15.

Chamber Opens Nominations for 2025 Annual Awards

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for its 2025 Annual Awards, set for March 7, 2026, at Batavia Downs. The event honors local businesses and individuals for excellence in business, agriculture, innovation, community service, and volunteerism.
Business nominees must be chamber members, and short write-ups can be submitted through GeneseeNY.com. Chamber President Brian Cousins encourages residents to recognize the people and organizations making a real impact in Genesee County.
The nomination deadline is December 31, 2025.

Crazy Ritz and Livonjaxnqueens Take Open Features at Batavia Downs

Two $12,500 Open races headlined Saturday night at Batavia Downs, and both winners delivered sharp efforts. In the Open Trot, Crazy Ritz went wire-to-wire for Jim McNeight Jr., holding off late challengers to win in 1:56.3, matching his seasonal best.
In the Open Pace, Livonjaxnqueens made a strong first-over move and powered clear for Denny Bucceri, drawing off to win in 1:54.2.
Driver Ray Fisher Jr. and trainer Sheena Cohen teamed up for a rare triple on the card.
Live racing continues Wednesday at 6 p.m. as Batavia Downs shifts to its Wednesday–Saturday schedule through December 20.